Fijian flyer a future Wallaby
The Brumbies have signed the franchise’s first international development player, Fijian-born wing Henry Speight – on a two-year deal ahead of next year’s Super 15 season.
Speight, an aged grade representative for Fiji, is currently playing for Waikato in the New Zealand provincial competition.
The Brumbies, along with the four other Australian Super Rugby teams, are permitted to sign two international players – one who will eventually be eligible to play for the Wallabies.
Brumbies coach Andy Friend said Speight, 22, will provide a genuine threat on the end of the team’s backline.
“We have been keeping our eye on Henry for some time now and are delighted that he has agreed to join us for the next two seasons,” Friend said.
“He brings real pace and excitement to what is shaping to be a very dynamic backline.”
Friend said the franchise had one more position available in their squad for the 2011 Super Rugby season.
Speight made his debut for the Mooloo Men in 2008 and has subsequently played more than 20 NPC games. At 97kg and 186cm tall his great pace, size and evasive skills will complement one of the most exciting backlines in Super Rugby.
Friend said he is extremely pleased with the shape his squad is taking.
“Signing Henry is one of the final pieces in the puzzle for 2011,” he said.
“The squad has a nice mix of experience and young up-and-coming talent. We can’t wait to get into pre-season training in a few weeks.”
The CA Technologies Brumbies squad commences pre-season training on Monday, November 8, with the first Super Rugby home game in 2011 to be held against the Chiefs on Saturday, February 19.
